Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association (BFPDA) is a key trade body and lobbying group for film producers and distributors operating within the Bangladeshi film industry, commonly referred to as **Dhallywood**. Its primary role is to advocate for the growth of local cinema, safeguard the professional interests of its members, and collectively address industry-wide challenges, often in consultation with the government's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The BFPDA operates mainly from the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (**BFDC**) area in Dhaka.
Khourshed Alam Khosru served as the President of the association following the 2019 election, with Shamsul Alam as the General Secretary, although the association has faced internal conflicts and government intervention regarding its elected committees.[1][2][3]
History
The BFPDA was formed in **1997** with the merger of two precursor organizations to create a unified front for the industry.
Predecessor Organizations
Bangladesh Film Producers' Association: This body was founded in **1972** by the famous filmmaker Khan Ataur Rahman, soon after the Independence of Bangladesh. Its purpose was to support and organize the country's film production sector.
Bangladesh Film Distributors' Association: Established around **1975–76**, this organization focused on representing the commercial interests of distributors involved in exhibiting films.
The amalgamation into the Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association in 1997 aimed to harmonize the frequently conflicting interests of those who finance films (producers) and those who distribute them (distributors), particularly concerning profit management and distribution challenges.[4]
Role and Activities
The BFPDA is one of the most powerful regulatory and advocacy bodies within Dhallywood. Its activities focus on industry protection, regulation, and development.
Advocacy and Lobbying
The association is instrumental in lobbying the government, particularly the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, on key policy decisions affecting the industry.
The BFPDA enforces a code of conduct for its members and is often involved in collective actions to maintain industry standards. It has, at times, announced temporary boycotts or declared certain artists as "unwanted" for alleged involvement in "anti-interest" activities or for publicly criticizing producers and directors.[6]
Governance and Structure
The BFPDA is governed by an elected **Executive Committee**. The last known election for the 2019-2021 term resulted in Khourshed Alam Khosru being elected President and Shamsul Alam as General Secretary.
The association’s membership includes both active and associate members, with approximately 219 individuals or organizations enlisted as members as of 2017.[citation needed]
Controversy over Committee Dissolution
Following the 2019 election, the committee faced severe disputes, including complaints of irregularities. In a high-profile case, the Ministry of Commerce intervened and dissolved the elected committee over a complaint filed by actor Zayed Khan, citing proven allegations of irregularities. The Ministry subsequently ordered the association to hold a fresh election within 120 days to form a new committee.[7]
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